The Nigeria Police Force, successfully neutralized seven terrorists and seized 23 firearms, along with various types of ammunition, in recent operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and strengthening internal security across the country.
In a statement released on Sunday via X, Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the operations are part of ongoing efforts to combat criminal activity and ensure public safety.
According to the statement, on February 14, 2025, armed assailants attacked Gobiraje Village in Suru Local Government Area, Kebbi State, and kidnapped a 60-year-old man, Umaru Bawa.
Police operatives in the state tracked the suspects to Tundafari Forest in the Dakingari region, where they engaged in a gun battle with the kidnappers.
Four of the assailants were killed, and one was apprehended with fatal injuries.
The kidnapped victim was rescued unharmed, and the N3 million ransom already paid was recovered.
Additionally, on February 8, 2025, police operatives in Imo State, working with other security agencies, raided an IPOB/ESN terrorist camp in Ezioha Mbaitolu, Umuele Umuaka, Njaba LGA. During the operation, two key members of the ESN were neutralized, and the team recovered seven AK-47 rifles, 13 pump-action guns, and hundreds of rounds of live ammunition.
The following day, February 9, 2025, the operatives proceeded to Nkwukwo Forest in Mbaitoli LGA, near the Ubachima Forest in Awomama Oru West LGA, where they intercepted another group of terrorists. Upon being spotted, the terrorists opened fire, leading to an exchange of gunfire.
Three additional terrorist leaders were neutralized, and the police recovered two AK-47 rifles, each loaded with 36 rounds of live ammunition, one pump-action gun, a cutlass, four motorcycles, and various criminal charms.
“These operations are a testament to the Force’s unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order, and to dismantling criminal networks that pose a threat to the safety of citizens,” the statement read.
Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun commended the operatives for their bravery and reiterated the need for continued vigilance in the fight against crime.
The IGP emphasized that the operations will continue with renewed energy and encouraged increased intelligence gathering, community engagement, and the prompt reporting of suspicious activities.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains dedicated to protecting lives and property, strengthening community trust, and fostering a peaceful and secure environment for all Nigerians,” the statement concluded.
